History of the Galveston Art League

The history of the art groups in Galveston must recognize the efforts of Mrs. Marie Kimball, a pioneer of the city’s art world. She formed the earliest group of Galveston art lovers. No permanent organization functioned until the present Galveston Art League was founded on June 12, 1914, how. The group was composed of Mrs. I.H. Kempner, Mrs. Boyer Gonzales, Miss Frances Kirk, Miss Hattie Wittig, Miss Angela McDonald, Mrs. W. F. Beers, and Miss Alice Black. Throughout its years of existence, the Galveston Art League has continued to promote the goals and purposes set forth in the League’s first constitution:

• To foster worthwhile art in the schools and homes of the city
• To solicit the cooperation of public and private groups in support of art
• To encourage the artist of the city and state
• To hold exhibitions

The Art League continues to:
• Welcome visiting artists.
• Sponsor art instruction by well-known artist.
• Present their works in exhibition.
• Introduce artists to Galvestonians in open-house receptions.
• Bring art shows to the island.
• Present outstanding lectures at regular meetings.
• Organize art functions.

The Galveston Art League continues to support the philosophy of the National Endowment for the Arts, “A great Nation Deserves Great Art” and works to bring that philosophy to the community.

Visit the Gallery:

2117A Post Office Street, Galveston, Texas

Directions To The Galveston Art League
From Houston to Postoffice Street:
Travel Interstate 45 South (Gulf Freeway) to the Galveston Causeway. Soon after crossing the Causeway, I-45 becomes Broadway (SR-87, Ave. J). Continue traveling along Broadway for approximately 2.8 miles. Turn left on 23rd St. (Tremont St.) and travel north approximately .3 miles to Postoffice St. (Ave. E).

From Bolivar Peninsula to Postoffice Street:
Starting from Crystal Beach, travel approximately 10.7 miles to the Bolivar Ferry. Upon exiting the Ferry, take Ferry Road (SR-87) and head southeast approximately .9 miles. Turn right (west) onto Harborside Drive. Travel approximately 1.4 miles along Harborside Dr. Turn left (south) onto 23rd Street (Tremont St.) and travel approximately .3 miles to Postoffice St. (Ave. E).

Gallery